Your Ultimate Guide to Summer Fun in Delaware
Summer is just around the corner and we want to help you make plans. Here are the best things to do in Delaware in summer.
The warm weather is finally here, and that means planning all your summer fun in Delaware. There's no denying the beauty of The First State, which truly comes to life in the summertime. You can have fun all season long with beautiful beaches, fun activities, hiking, festivals, and events. Here are some of the best things to do in Delaware in summer:
Best Summer Vacation Destinations In Delaware
When it comes to summer vacation destinations in Delaware, a few places immediately come to mind. Whether it's a low-key beach town or a city, there are so many fun things to do in Delaware in summer in these places.
1. Lewes
Location: Lewes, DE
Popularity: The summer population far exceeds the year-round population. It's pretty popular this time of year.
Need to know: This busy summertime destination is also quite walkable.
While the town of Lewes has a year-round population of around 3,500, that number increases to over 135,000 in the summer. This incredibly charming town is on the tip of Cape Henlopen, where the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay meet. You'll find gorgeous scenery, beaches, hiking trails, fresh seafood, plenty of restaurants, shops, and so much more here. This town is filled with so many fun things to do in Delaware in summer.
2. Fenwick Island
Location: Fenwick Island, DE
Popularity: This is a laid-back island to be on during the summer months and doesn't see the summer crowds that places like Lewes and Rehoboth Beach get.
Need to know: Fenwick Island is rather isolated and may not have the amenities and other options of other towns. But it's such a gorgeous place for a getaway.
Fenwick Island is a serene beach town with a 3-mile beach and just over 400 year-round residents. While tourists visit during the summer in Delaware, it isn't as crowded as other beach towns around the state. Among the sights are Fenwick Island State Park, the Fenwick Island Lighthouse, and a winery. There are a few waterfront dining options and places to rent a kayak or paddleboard to take out on the water. If you're looking for laid-back family things to do in Delaware in summer, take a getaway here.
3. Wilmington
Location: Wilmington, DE
Popularity: The city is popular throughout the year but becomes even more so during the summer months.
Need to know: Like most cities, parking can be tricky to find during summer. There are metered parking spots and pay lots throughout the city.
Exploring the city of Wilmington, Delaware, is an excellent way to spend a summer day. Stroll along the riverwalk that runs alongside the Brandywine River, have a picnic at a park, get tickets for a local baseball game, or attend a festival—the possibilities seem endless this time of year!
Best Beaches To Visit In Delaware This Summer
With 381 miles of coastline, you better believe that The First State is home to some gorgeous and pristine beaches that will make your summer complete. Here are a few of our favorites:
4. Rehoboth Beach
Location: Rehoboth Beach, DE
Popularity: This beach and the town are exceptionally crowded during the summer months.
Need to know: Book accommodations well in advance, as this is one of the most popular summer vacation spots on the East Coast.
Are you ready for some fun under the sun this summer? Well, one of the most popular places in the state to do just that is Rehoboth Beach. The beach gets crowded; for some, that's part of the appeal. Aside from the beautiful sandy beach, there's a boardwalk, an amusement park, ice cream shops, souvenir shops, restaurants, and everything else you could hope for during your beach vacation. Have you spent time at Rehoboth Beach, Delaware?
5. Bethany Beach
Location: Bethany Beach, DE
Popularity: While the beach is popular, it doesn't get as crowded as Rehoboth Beach in July and August.
Need to know: Beach parking is metered and costs $4/hour. Pay-to-park is enacted between May 15 and September 15.
A mere 13.5 miles south of Rehoboth Beach is where you'll find Bethany Beach. Now, I have stayed in both places, and Bethany Beach seemed less crowded and, therefore, a bit more laid back. There is a boardwalk here, but it certainly doesn't see the crowds that Rehoboth has. Bethany Beach is absolutely pristine, and you won't have to fight for a spot on the sand. I find it quite relaxing here. It's also a great getaway destination if you're looking for romantic things to do in Delaware in summer.
6. Dewey Beach
Location: Dewey Beach, DE
Popularity: Popular but still quieter than other beaches in Delaware.
Need to know: Parking at the beach costs $4/hour, although you can purchase a seasonal parking permit.
Thousands of tourists visit Dewey Beach in the summertime, especially on the weekends. Located between the Atlantic Ocean and Rehoboth Bay, Dewey Beach is small yet offers a wide stretch of sand that is perfect for relaxing. The town itself has resorts, numerous dining options, and other amenities to keep you and the family entertained all season long.
Parks To Visit In Delaware This Summer
Delaware only has 17 state parks, but there are many city and town parks to visit as well. If you love to spend time outdoors soaking up the sun during the summer, here are a few of the best parks to visit in Delaware this summer:
7. Delaware Seashore State Park — Rehoboth Beach
Location: Rehoboth Beach, DE
Popularity: This Delaware state park sees tens of thousands of visitors each year.
Need to know: Daily entry fee: $5/day for residents or $10/day for non-residents.
Delaware Seashore State Park is home to six miles of coastline and a wide beach that allows for plenty of space to lay out. The views here are also outstanding, like that of the cable-stayed Indian River Bridge (pictured here). If you love history, you can visit the park's Indian River Life-Saving Station, built in 1876. Camping is also an option here if you feel like being close to all that Rehoboth Beach has to offer, yet staying far enough away from the crowds at night. This state park offers so much in terms of recreation. Aside from camping, swimming, boating, and fishing are other leisurely options we can all enjoy. This is certainly the best place to be for Delaware summer activities in the great outdoors.
8. Cape Henlopen State Park — Lewes
Location: Lewes, DE
Popularity: This is one of the most popular Delaware state parks.
Need to know: Daily entry fee: $5/day for residents or $10/day for non-residents.
With a museum, a historic area, a beach, campsites and cabins, a nature center, and trails, including paved multi-use trails, it seems like Cape Henlopen State Park has it all! At just over 5,000 acres, this state park is a paradise. You'll want to lie out on the beach and go for a swim in the summer months, go for a hike, or even take a bike ride around the park. There are so many ways to enjoy a Delaware summer day here!
9. Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge — Smyrna
Location: Smyrna, DE
Popularity: This wildlife refuge rarely gets crowded.
Need to know: The daily entry fee is $4 per car, $2 per bike-in or walk-in, and an annual pass is $12. You can pay entry fees online.
Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge is home to more than 250 bird species, and, therefore, birdwatchers come here in droves. The refuge also protects one of the mid-Atlantic's largest tidal marshes, making it an important spot for wildlife and migratory birds. To explore the park, you may wish to embark on the 12-mile scenic drive or hike along a boardwalk trail through the marsh. Take a pair of binoculars with you to get a better look at the birds and other species here.
Best Free Summer Activities In Delaware
While activities can be expensive, there are certain places you can go that won't cost you anything. The following are some free things to do in Delaware in summer:
10. Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk
Location: Rehoboth Beach, DE
Popularity: One of the most popular spots in the state.
Need To know: Expect to pay for metered parking at the boardwalk during peak season.
Exploring the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk doesn't have to cost you a dime, although you may be tempted to buy saltwater taffy from Dolle's or some Thrasher's French Fries. However, you can just take in the lively atmosphere of this busy, buzzing boardwalk and browse the shops. It's so much fun here if you're looking for cheap things to do in Delaware in summer.
11. DuPont Environmental Education Center of Delaware Nature Society — Wilmington
Location: Wilmington, DE
Popularity: This is a peaceful oasis in the city of Wilmington.
Need to know: Free to visit.
DuPont Environmental Education Center of Delaware Nature Society has so much to offer and, best of all, it's free to visit. This 212-acre refuge is located along a tidal marsh and the Christina River. Wildlife thrives here, and visitors may see bald eagles, river otters, painted turtles, and many other species. Spend some time at the Visitor Center, hike or bike on the trails, and check out the 10-acre ornamental garden. It's almost hard to believe a place like this exists in the city.
12. Wilmington River Walk
Location: Wilmington, DE
Popularity: Most popular on weekends.
Need to know: The River Walk is 1.3 miles long.
Let's take a walk by the river this summer! The River Walk in Wilmington runs alongside the Christina River through the downtown area and less-crowded city sections. Along the way, you'll find public art pieces and you'll have views of downtown and, of course, the river. Whether you want to take a casual stroll or go for a heart-pumping jog, there's no better place in the city than this waterfront pathway.
Best Summer Events And Festivals In Delaware
One thing that many of us really look forward to during the summer months is attending a festival. Here are some of the best Delaware summer events and festivals:
13. Delaware State Fair — Harrington
Location: Harrington, DE
Popularity: This is a popular state fair. Well over 300,000 people attend each year.
Need to know: The State Fair starts mid-July and runs almost to the end of the month.
Since 1919, the Delaware State Fair has brought the people of Delaware together for fun in the summertime. So many great events during the fair make it a family favorite. There are the rides and the games, the fair foods, the livestock competitions, live music, and so much more. You must add this to your Delaware summer bucket list.
14. Old Fashioned Ice Cream Festival — Wilmington
Location: Wilmington, DE
Popularity: This is a popular event for locals and visitors alike.
What you need to know: The event is held at Rockwood Park & Museum at the end of June. Tickets are $5 per person over the age of 12.
Who doesn't love ice cream? And when an event exists like the Old Fashioned Ice Cream Festival in Wilmington, there's no excuse not to attend! Held for one day at the end of June, this festival that celebrates the most delicious frozen treat will also have live music, food trucks, vendors, carnival games, train rides, a beer and wine garden, fireworks, and all the ice cream you can eat. Head to the Newcastle DE website to purchase your tickets.
15. Dover 4th of July Celebration
Location: Dover, DE
Popularity: Like any 4th of July event, thousands of people typically attend.
Need to know: This event is held in downtown Dover.
Celebrate the First State best by heading to the Dover 4th of July Celebration this year. On Independence Day, there will be a parade and an exciting fireworks display. This is one Delaware summer event you can't miss!
What are some of your favorite things to do in Delaware in summer? Is it spending time at the beach, exploring a state park, or attending a festival? If you would add any other seasonal activities to this Delaware summer guide, please let us know by filling out our nomination form. Have a great summer!
If you have beach plans this summer, look at our Ultimate Beach Must-Haves for everything you need.
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